When it comes to cooking with fresh vegetables, few can rival the sweetness and versatility of sweet peas. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing side dish or a decadent main course, these tiny legumes are sure to impress. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious sweet pea recipes that are perfect for every occasion – from casual weeknight meals to special celebrations.
From creamy soups to savory pasta dishes, and even sweet treats like crostini and toast, our collection of sweet pea recipes is designed to inspire your culinary creativity. So why not start cooking with these little green gems today? Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered.
Creamy Sweet Pea and Mint Soup
This refreshing soup is a perfect blend of sweet peas, fresh mint, and creamy goodness, making it a delightful treat for any time of the year. With its vibrant green color and subtle sweetness, it’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen sweet peas
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add sweet peas, mint leaves, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until peas are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Garlic Butter Sweet Pea Pasta
This recipe combines the sweetness of fresh sweet peas with the richness of garlic butter, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta dish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 cups fresh or frozen sweet peas
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Add sweet peas to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, garlic butter sauce, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Toss until well coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Pea and Bacon Risotto
This creamy risotto combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the smokiness of crispy bacon, creating a unique and delicious dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, diced
– 1 cup sweet peas (fresh or frozen)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the rice and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1/2-cup increments, until the rice is cooked and creamy (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Stir in the sweet peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Sweet Pea Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of sweet peas with the brightness of lemon and herbs. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas, shelled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sweet peas, lemon juice, and olive oil.
2. Stir in mint and basil leaves until well combined.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Sweet Pea and Parmesan Crostini
Sweet Pea and Parmesan Crostini Recipe
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized morsels that combine the sweetness of fresh sweet peas with the savory goodness of parmesan cheese on crispy baguette slices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch slices
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together sweet peas, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and garlic.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the pea mixture onto each slice, leaving a 1/4-inch border around the edges.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and baguette is toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Sweet Pea Hummus
Elevate your snack game with this unique and delicious take on traditional hummus, featuring sweet peas and a spicy kick. Perfect for dipping veggies, pita chips, or crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked sweet peas
– 1/2 cup chickpeas
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the sweet peas, chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning if desired.
5. Serve with your favorite dippers or enjoy straight from the bowl!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Sweet Pea and Mushroom Stir-Fry
This vibrant stir-fry combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the earthiness of sautéed mushrooms, all wrapped up in a savory soy sauce-based sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your favorite protein.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the peas, soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the peas are tender but still crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with green onions if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Pea and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and nutritious twist on classic stuffed shells. Sweet peas add a pop of color and sweetness to the dish, while ricotta provides a rich and velvety texture.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup sweet peas, cooked and pureed
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp salt
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions.
3. In a medium bowl, combine pureed sweet peas, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix until smooth.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the sweet pea-ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese (optional).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Pea and Potato Curry
Sweet Pea and Potato Curry Recipe
This flavorful and nutritious curry combines the sweetness of sweet peas with the earthiness of potatoes, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. With its vibrant green color and aromatic spices, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound sweet peas (fresh or frozen)
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add sweet peas and potatoes. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Pour in coconut milk and season with salt to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet Pea and Feta Frittata
Sweet Pea and Feta Frittata Recipe
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this vibrant and flavorful Sweet Pea and Feta Frittata! Fresh sweet peas add a pop of color and sweetness, while crumbled feta provides a tangy and creamy contrast.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas, shelled and chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add chopped sweet peas and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the cooked sweet peas.
5. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese evenly across the top.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the feta is golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Sweet Pea and Avocado Toast
Sweet Pea and Avocado Toast: A refreshing twist on classic avocado toast, this recipe combines the creamy richness of avocados with the sweet and earthy flavors of fresh sweet peas.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1 cup cooked sweet peas (fresh or frozen)
– 2 slices whole grain bread (toasted)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Add the cooked sweet peas on top of the avocado, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle salt, pepper, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using) over the sweet peas.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Sweet Pea and Chicken Pot Pie
This recipe combines the sweetness of fresh sweet peas with the savory flavor of chicken and flaky pastry, creating a delightful and comforting pot pie that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups fresh sweet peas
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic until cooked through.
3. Add the sweet peas, flour, butter, chicken broth, heavy cream, and thyme to the skillet. Stir until combined.
4. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
5. Fill the pie crust with the chicken mixture and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Pea and Pancetta Carbonara
This creamy pasta dish gets a sweet boost from fresh sweet peas, perfectly balanced by the savory goodness of pancetta. A perfect combination for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add sweet peas to the same skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and reserved pasta water.
5. Add cooked spaghetti, pancetta, and sweet peas to the egg mixture. Toss until well combined.
6. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the eggs are cooked and the sauce is creamy (about 5 minutes).
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Pea and Goat Cheese Tart
This elegant tart combines the sweetness of fresh sweet peas with the tanginess of goat cheese, perfect for a springtime dinner party or special occasion. With its flaky pastry crust and vibrant green filling, it’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas, shelled and chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (chèvre)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together sweet peas, goat cheese, and olive oil.
4. Spread the pea mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
6. Brush edges with a little water and press gently to seal.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Pea and Corn Chowder
Sweet Pea and Corn Chowder Recipe
This creamy chowder combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the natural sweetness of corn, making it a perfect summer soup for warm weather gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup frozen sweet peas
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels (from about 2 ears)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the chicken broth, sweet peas, corn kernels, and paprika. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the peas are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Pea and Shrimp Scampi
This recipe combines the sweetness of fresh sweet peas with the brininess of succulent shrimp, all wrapped up in a buttery scampi sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups fresh sweet peas (or frozen, thawed)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet with 2 inches of water to a boil. Add the sweet peas and cook until tender, about 3-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside with the sweet peas.
5. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook until reduced by half, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve the shrimp and sweet peas with the scampi sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet Pea and Spinach Quiche
This quiche combines the sweetness of sweet peas with the earthiness of spinach, making it a perfect brunch or breakfast option. The flaky crust and creamy filling will surely impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup cooked sweet peas
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add cooked sweet peas and spinach leaves to the egg mixture; stir until well combined.
5. Pour the filling into the pie crust.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Pea and Carrot Puree
This sweet and savory puree is a perfect introduction to solid foods for your little one. With the natural sweetness of peas and carrots, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen sweet peas
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons breast milk or formula (optional)
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the chopped carrots and enough water to cover them.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.
3. Add the sweet peas to the saucepan and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before transferring it to a blender or food processor.
5. Blend until smooth, adding breast milk or formula if desired to achieve the desired consistency.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Pea and Basil Pesto Pasta
A delightful summer pasta dish that combines the sweetness of sweet peas with the brightness of fresh basil, all wrapped up in a creamy pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 cup fresh sweet peas
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine sweet peas, basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Continue blending until well combined.
4. Toss cooked pasta with pesto sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Pea and Ham Hock Soup
This creamy soup combines the sweetness of fresh peas with the rich flavor of ham hocks, perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet peas (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup diced ham hock
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add ham hock and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add chicken broth, sweet peas, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until peas are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches.
5. Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover a world of sweet pea delights with our collection of 20 mouth-watering recipes! From creamy soups to savory pasta dishes, and even sweet treats, we’ve got you covered. Enjoy a Garlic Butter Sweet Pea Pasta or a Spicy Sweet Pea Hummus as an appetizer. Satisfy your sweet tooth with Sweet Pea and Parmesan Crostini or Sweet Pea and Avocado Toast. Or, try something new like Sweet Pea and Bacon Risotto or Sweet Pea and Ricotta Stuffed Shells. With so many options, you’ll never run out of ideas for every occasion!
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